Learning Outcomes

2. Carry out their research proposal competently and efficiently undertake an in-depth literature review.

3. Present results obtained and evaluate them using an appropriate statistical analysis; discuss in depth their chosen subject area

4. Work to a planned timetable.

5. Produce a learned report of the investigation in the form of a dissertation.

Content

The aims of the module are:

To provide the students with the opportunity for an in-depth investigation of an appropriate topic. It is intended that the skills and discipline required to write a scholarly paper or report on a specified subject will be developed to an advanced level. The module will provide the opportunity to specialise in a particular aspect of the discipline.

It will achieve this by considering the following areas:

- Introductory session detailing the requirements of a dissertation
- Tutorials to give guidance and arrange appropriate dissertation research work, culminating in the production of a research proposal
- A period of approximately 3 months experimental work/data gathering under the guidance of a dissertation supervisor
- Writing up and submission of a dissertation in accordance with University guidelines and under the guidance of a dissertation supervisor

Brief description

The purpose of the project, on which the dissertation is based, is to demonstrate that the student has acquired the ability to undertake and satisfactorily complete a major piece of work in computing and research in the chosen field.

Module Skills

Skills Type

Skills details

Application of Number

Collation, manipulation and analysis of data may be an integral part of the research conducted and the thesis presented.

Communication

Students will be expected to develop advanced communication skills, in particular written communication, through the presentation of a research thesis in an appropriate academic style and in accordance with University guidelines

Improving own Learning and Performance

Students need to demonstrate good organizational skills in order to carry out their research work and ultimately produce a thesis in a timely and effective manner.

Information Technology

Students will be required to source information from a variety of scientific publication data bases and where appropriate use software statistical packages to analysis their results.

Personal Development and Career planning

It is intended that the techniques and skills developed during this module will have a direct application to student’s future careers. Vocational skills, both within their subject specialism and more general transferable skills, will be developed to a high level.

Problem solving

Students are required to design and implement an investigational protocol in order to address a specific research question

Research skills

Students are required to critically evaluate previous research work during the production of a Literature review and then collect, analyse and interpret their own research data.

Subject Specific Skills

In depth technical knowledge of the dissertation subject area

Team work

Students may have the opportunity for developing their team skills if their dissertation work requires them to work within a research team. However the emphasis in this module is on independent research.